an outstanding skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an outstanding skill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a particular ability or talent that is exceptional or remarkable. Example: "Her ability to solve complex problems quickly is truly an outstanding skill that sets her apart from her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

James has got an outstanding skill-set.

The Guardian - Sport

But his chief claim to fame is as an elegant and fastidious biographer, and an editor of outstanding skill.

The Guardian

Wayland the Smith, Wayland also spelled Weland, in Scandinavian, German, and Anglo-Saxon legend, a smith of outstanding skill.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The fact that the telescope remains at the cutting edge of cosmology, a quarter of a century after its construction, is a tribute to their outstanding skill.

The Guardian

It has been a nightmare journey for writer-director Martha Fiennes, whose outstanding skill as a film-maker we've known since Onegin (1999).

The Guardian - Film

In addition to his fine hitting ability, DiMaggio had outstanding skill as a fielder, tying the American League fielding record in 1947 with only one error in 141 games.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They also mentioned other possible explanations, such as the rapid execution enabled by the use of a repertoire of motifs, or the outstanding skill of Roman artists [78, 79].

Heritage Science

Stadia are full and more people are coming into a game which is better to watch with outstanding skill levels.

The Guardian - Sport

This is not to belittle Carroll as a footballer or to suggest that his one genuinely outstanding skill is heading the ball.

The Guardian - Sport

Both groups ignored his outstanding skill in abstract composition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the fact is, his one genuinely outstanding skill is heading the ball.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's aptitude, follow "an outstanding skill" with a prepositional phrase (e.g., "an outstanding skill in leadership", "an outstanding skill with data analysis") to provide specific context.

Common error

Avoid using overly generic descriptors alongside "an outstanding skill". Instead of saying "an outstanding skill that is very good", specify what makes the skill exceptional (e.g., "an outstanding skill in negotiation that consistently yields favorable outcomes").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an outstanding skill" functions as a noun phrase that identifies and describes a particular talent or ability. The adjective "outstanding" intensifies the noun "skill", indicating that the ability is exceptional or remarkable. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an outstanding skill" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to denote exceptional ability, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While relatively rare in occurrence, its primary function is to highlight and commend particular talents. It is most frequently found in news, encyclopedias and science publications. Related phrases include "a remarkable talent" and "an exceptional aptitude". To maximize its impact, always specify the context of the skill and avoid redundant descriptors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a remarkable talent

Replaces 'skill' with 'talent' and 'outstanding' with 'remarkable', emphasizing innate ability.

an exceptional aptitude

Substitutes 'skill' with 'aptitude' and 'outstanding' with 'exceptional', highlighting a natural inclination.

a superior ability

Uses 'ability' instead of 'skill' and 'superior' in place of 'outstanding', focusing on capability.

a prodigious gift

Replaces 'skill' with 'gift' and 'outstanding' with 'prodigious', suggesting an extraordinary natural endowment.

a first-rate expertise

Substitutes 'skill' with 'expertise' and 'outstanding' with 'first-rate', highlighting specialized knowledge.

a world-class proficiency

Uses 'proficiency' instead of 'skill' and 'world-class' in place of 'outstanding', emphasizing high-level competence.

a magnificent command

Replaces 'skill' with 'command' and 'outstanding' with 'magnificent', focusing on mastery and control.

a top-tier capability

Substitutes 'skill' with 'capability' and 'outstanding' with 'top-tier', emphasizing superior performance.

an unparalleled mastery

Uses 'mastery' instead of 'skill' and 'unparalleled' in place of 'outstanding', highlighting unmatched expertise.

a stellar competence

Replaces 'skill' with 'competence' and 'outstanding' with 'stellar', suggesting remarkable proficiency.

FAQs

How can I use "an outstanding skill" in a sentence?

You can use "an outstanding skill" to describe someone's exceptional ability in a particular area. For example, "Her "an outstanding skill" in communication made her an effective leader".

What are some alternatives to "an outstanding skill"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a remarkable talent", "an exceptional aptitude", or "a superior ability", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "an outstanding skill"?

While "outstanding" already implies excellence, using it with "skill" is not necessarily redundant. It emphasizes the exceptional nature of the particular skill being described. Context is important. However, consider alternatives like "exceptional skill" to avoid potential wordiness.

Which preposition should I use after "an outstanding skill"?

The choice of preposition depends on the context. "An outstanding skill in" is often used for general areas (e.g., "an outstanding skill in leadership"), while "an outstanding skill with" might be used for tools or techniques (e.g., "an outstanding skill with data analysis").